West Ham defender praises Nolan performances

George McCartney has praised West Ham captain Kevin Nolan’s good performances and eye for goal this season.

The Northern Ireland international believes Nolan’s leadership has helped the Hammers climb up to 9th in the table, with four wins from nine games in the Premier League.

Nolan, aged 30, moved to Upton Park in June 2011 after Sam Allardyce was appointed manager. Many were surprised at the midfielder’s decision to step down a league after a solid season as Newcastle captain, but the former Bolton man was keen to re-unite with his old boss, Big Sam.

The Englishman was immediately appointed captain at Upton Park following the departure of Matthew Upson and was pivotal to the club’s promotion to the Premier League ,contributing 12 league goals in the process. This season, the attacking midfielder has continued to show his goal-scoring ability, netting four times in nine appearances.

Hammers left-back George McCartney, currently in his second spell at Upton Park, has told the clubs official website he holds his captain in high regard.

“Until last season, I had never played with Kevin, but had seen him scoring goals for Newcastle and Bolton, so I knew what he was about” said 31-year-old McCartney. “He is doing that here at West Ham and scoring important goals and for me, Kevin played a big part in us getting promoted last season.

“This year, his goals already have helped us get into the top half of the table. He is a big player at the club on and off the pitch where he has time for everyone. He is a great captain and a great lad as well.

McCartney will be hoping Nolan can continue his form in front of goal as the Hammers take on champions Manchester City at Upton Park this weekend.